Seema welcomes valuable point in Siwelele’s battle to avoid the drop

Seema’s charges shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw against Orlando Pirates at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, a result that keeps them in 11th position after collecting their fourth draw in their last five Betway Premiership matches.

The former Pirates skipper explained that every club has different objectives at this stage of the campaign, and for Siwelele the priority is to steadily move away from the drop zone.

"We have different priorities as clubs. Us, we are fighting for relegation, some teams are fighting for top eight, others are fighting to win the league.

"We know where we are and that we are relegation candidates. We want to move away from the red zone as quickly as possible. We are happy with the draw, and whether we are home or away - as long as we don't lose matches."

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Seema also revealed that part of their tactical plan involved limiting the influence of Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine during the build-up phase.

Chaine has been a crucial figure for the Buccaneers this season, playing behind one of the league’s most disciplined defences, which has conceded fewer than ten goals so far in the campaign.

The shot-stopper has also enjoyed an outstanding individual run, becoming the first goalkeeper this season to reach 14 clean sheets after just 20 league matches.

Seema says his side worked hard to close down the passing lanes and stop Pirates from launching attacks through their usual channels.

Despite taking points off them, Seema believes Pirates still have what it takes to offer a strong push for the league crown this season.

The draw leaves the Soweto giants on 48 points as the title race continues to intensify with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sundowns remain within striking distance and still have a match in hand, meaning victory in their next outing could swing the advantage back to the defending champions.

Siwelele goalkeeper Ricardo Goss walked away with the Man of the Match award after a standout display between the posts in Soweto.

The 31-year-old produced a string of impressive saves, 11 in total, to frustrate Pirates’ attacking line and ensure his side secured a valuable point.

Goss has recently been a regular call-up for Bafana Bafana, and his latest performance further underlined why he continues to earn recognition at national level.

Seema praised the goalkeeper’s composure and leadership.

"We have been working very well with him, even body wise you can see that he has toned a lot. As long as we have one or two players in the Bafana set-up it's good for us, and it's motivating him.

"We know that he is on loan but he is fighting as if he is our player. I'm happy with his performances, he's got eight clean sheets now and I want to also tell you that he is a good leader."